Are you a full or part-time caretaker of someone who has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's? If so, you may have noticed that your loved one's symptoms become more pronounced in the evening. This is a phenomenon that is sometimes referred to as
Perhaps you have experienced challenging evenings with your loved one. You may even feel like the days go great, but evenings are completely the opposite. Your situation is not hopeless. Knowing what to do to minimize these episodes will aid you in taking better care of your loved one.
Routine
It is helpful to ensure that your loved one has a daily routine. While they may have memory problems, routines result in normalcy and can aid in them getting used to doing the same things over and over again daily.
Exercise
Some people with dementia are avid pacers. They walk frequently in the evening. You can use the time to get some exercise in yourself by taking them outside for a walk if the weather permits. Otherwise, do not scold or become frustrated with the pacing. Instead, make sure that hallways and other areas where the pacing occurs are clutter-free to reduce the chances of trips and falls. Think of it as a way of them "winding down."
Beware of Temperature
Think of how you feel if you are too hot or too cold. A person with memory problems may not be able to effectively communicate that they are cold or hot. Look for signs such as perspiration and thirst during the summer. In the winter, shivers or even skin that is ice cold to the touch could be signs that your loved one is jittery due to uncomfortable body temperature. Accommodate them accordingly.
Music
This one may take some experimenting, but if you find that your loved one gets antsy in the evening, try rotating different types of music. Pay attention to the type of music that appears to calm them.
When you discover the type that works, play this type of music each evening. It does not have to be the same artist, but rather the same type of music. Do not make the mistake of thinking that the music has to be a soft melody. The goal of the music is to grasp the attention of your loved one.
Final Thoughts
Assisted living facilities that cater to individuals with dementia and Alzheimer's are one option for ensuring that your loved one gets the targeted care they need and ensure their safety. If you decide to allow your loved one to become a resident in one of these Alzheimers care facilities, ensure you share with the staff the things that seem to calm your loved. This information can make the transition from home to facility less confusing for your loved one due to the aim to keep routines as familiar as possible.
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